The smell of bacon and cheese makes us think of cozy nights at Outback Steakhouse. The Alice Springs Chicken is a favorite, loved for its comfort and taste. Today, we’ll show you how to make this dish at home.
Table of Contents
A beautifully plated Alice Springs chicken, featuring grilled chicken breast topped with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh herbs, served with a side of creamy honey mustard sauce. The dish is garnished with vibrant vegetables like sautéed spinach and colorful bell peppers, presented on a rustic wooden table with natural lighting highlighting the textures and colors of the ingredients.
- Alice Springs Chicken is a popular Outback Steakhouse dish featuring grilled chicken, bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and melted cheese.
- The dish’s name originates from the city of Alice Springs in Australia, although the recipe was created in the United States.
- The marinade is a key component, made with Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice.
- Searing and baking the chicken ensures a perfectly cooked interior and crispy exterior.
- Customizable toppings like different cheese blends and bacon variations allow you to make the dish your own.
The Story Behind Outback’s Famous Chicken Dish
The Outback Steakhouse’s Alice Springs Chicken is a favorite at the popular restaurant chain. It has a fascinating story of how it became famous.
Origins of the Name
The dish is named after Alice Springs in Australia’s Northern Territory. Even though the recipe isn’t from Australia, the name captures the Outback’s spirit. It matches the adventurous vibe of Outback Steakhouse.
Why It Became a Restaurant Favorite
The Alice Springs Chicken won over fans with its unique taste and look. It has tender chicken, savory bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and a honey mustard marinade. This mix makes it stand out from other chicken dishes.
What Makes It Special
The Alice Springs Chicken shines thanks to its signature Honey Mustard Marinade. This marinade, made with Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice, gives the chicken a sweet and tangy flavor. It’s what makes this dish special, different from other chicken recipes like the aussie chicken recipe and australian chicken marinade.
“The Alice Springs Chicken is a remarkable dish on our menu, and it’s clear why it has garnered such a loyal following. The blend of flavors and textures is truly captivating.”
– Outback Steakhouse Executive Chef
Essential Ingredients for Alice Springs Chicken Recipe
If you love the Alice Springs Chicken from Outback Steakhouse, you can make it at home. The secret is in the right ingredients. This dish is a mix of flavors and textures that make it a comfort food classic.
The dish starts with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They are the base for the dish’s flavors. The honey mustard marinade is key. It’s made with Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice.
To add richness and crunch, the recipe includes cooked bacon and sautéed mushrooms. The onion and butter used for the mushrooms add an earthy flavor. Finally, cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses are melted on top for a gooey finish.
Fresh parsley is the perfect garnish. It adds freshness and color. With these ingredients, you can make the iconic Alice Springs Chicken at home, bringing Outback Steakhouse flavors to your table.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 4 halves |
| Dijon mustard | 1/2 cup |
| Honey | 1/2 cup |
| Mayonnaise | 3 tablespoons |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Cooked bacon | 4 slices |
| Mushrooms | 8 ounces |
| Onion | 1 tablespoon |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Cheddar cheese | 6 ounces, shredded |
| Monterey Jack cheese | 6 ounces, shredded |
| Parsley, chopped | For garnish |
With these ingredients, you can make the beloved Alice Springs Chicken at home. It captures the essence of Outback Steakhouse’s famous dish.
The Secret Honey Mustard Marinade
Get ready to unlock the flavors of the famous Alice Springs Chicken with our homemade honey mustard marinade. This blend of mayonnaise, honey, and Dijon mustard is the secret to its signature taste. It made this dish a beloved Outback Steakhouse classic.
Perfect Marinade Ratios
To get the perfect honey mustard marinade, mix ¾ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup honey, and 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard. This ratio ensures the flavors blend together perfectly. It creates a luscious marinade that will transform your chicken.
Marination Time Tips
For the best results, marinate the chicken in this heavenly mixture for at least 30 minutes. But, if you can, marinate it for up to 24 hours. The longer it soaks, the more it absorbs the sweet and tangy flavors.
Making Extra Sauce for Serving
Make sure to save some of the honey mustard marinade for a dipping sauce. It adds a burst of flavor and moisture to every bite. This marinade is also great as a salad dressing or sandwich spread. It offers many ways to use it in your cooking.
Preparing Your Kitchen for Success
Before starting the Alice Springs Chicken recipe, make sure your kitchen is ready. You’ll need the right kitchen preparation tools and cooking tools for chicken recipes. This will make cooking easier. Let’s look at the key items for this easy chicken dinner idea.
- A large, oven-safe skillet, preferably cast iron, to sear and bake the chicken.
- Mixing bowls for prepping the marinade and other ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons to ensure accurate proportions.
- An instant-read meat thermometer to monitor the chicken’s internal temperature for perfect doneness.
Start by cooking the bacon, slicing the mushrooms, and shredding the Colby Jack cheese. This step will make the cooking process smoother. It lets you focus on putting the dish together and baking it.
Heat your oven to the right temperature, either 375°F or 400°F, based on the recipe. Keeping your workspace organized helps you cook efficiently. It lets you move easily through each step.
“Preparation is the key to successful cooking. With the right kitchen preparation and cooking tools for chicken recipes, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious and easy chicken dinner.”
A cozy kitchen setup with vibrant ingredients and utensils, featuring fresh chicken breast, colorful bell peppers, and herbs arranged on a wooden countertop, a cast iron skillet heating on the stove, soft natural light streaming through a window, a hint of homey decor in the background.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making the famous Alice Springs Chicken is a fun cooking journey. It combines tasty flavors. Let’s go through the steps to make this cozy dish.
Marinating Process
Begin by marinating the chicken breasts. Mix 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, 1/4 cup honey, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice in a shallow dish. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well with the marinade. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for more flavor.
Cooking Techniques
Heat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Cook 8 slices of bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until crispy, about 15-20 minutes. Take out the bacon, keeping the fat in the skillet. Then, sauté 4-6 ounces of sliced brown mushrooms and 1 tablespoon of chopped onion in 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Cook until the mushrooms are browned, about 10 minutes.
Assembly and Baking
After marinating, heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken breasts on both sides, about 5 minutes per side, until they get a nice golden crust.
Put the browned chicken breasts in a baking dish. Add the sautéed mushrooms and onions on top, followed by the crispy bacon slices. Finish with 4-6 slices of Monterey Jack cheese.
Bake the Alice Springs Chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese should melt and bubble. Add fresh parsley before serving.
Remember, keeping the right temperature is key for food safety and texture. Use a meat thermometer to check if your chicken is cooked. Enjoy this tasty, comforting dish!
Mastering the Mushroom and Bacon Topping
The secret to perfect sautéed mushrooms and crispy bacon topping for your Alice Springs Chicken is in the prep. Start by cooking the bacon until it’s crispy and golden. Once done, set the bacon aside, keeping the flavorful grease in the pan.
Next, add sliced mushrooms and diced onions to the bacon grease. Sauté them over medium heat, seasoning with salt and pepper. Let the mushrooms cook until they’re tender and golden. For extra flavor, add chopped fresh spinach or diced asparagus to the mushroom mix.
“The combination of savory mushrooms and crispy bacon takes this dish to the next level. It’s the perfect topping for the juicy chicken.”
Once the mushrooms are sautéed, it’s time to assemble your Alice Springs Chicken. Layer the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Then, top them with the mushroom mixture and crispy bacon. Finish with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese, and you’re ready to bake.
A close-up view of sautéed mushrooms, glistening in a warm, golden-brown pan, with steam rising, surrounded by crispy bacon bits, a sprinkle of fresh herbs for garnish, and a rustic kitchen background.
The key to mastering this topping is to ensure the mushrooms are cooked through and the bacon is perfectly crispy. This mix of textures and flavors makes the Alice Springs Chicken a comforting and crave-worthy dish.
Cheese Selection and Melting Techniques
Creating the perfect Alice Springs Chicken requires the right cheese and melting methods. Outback Steakhouse uses a mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. This blend is key for flavor and melting. You can also try Colby Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a spicy twist.
Best Cheese Combinations
A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack is the best for an authentic taste. The sharp cheddar and creamy Monterey Jack make a perfect topping. They enhance the dish’s flavors beautifully.
Proper Melting Methods
- Shred the cheese fresh for the best melting results.
- Sprinkle the cheese evenly over the chicken and toppings.
- Bake the dish until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, about 10-15 minutes in a preheated oven.
Follow these tips for the melted cheese toppings to be just right. This makes your Alice Springs Chicken even more delicious and satisfying.
Perfect Side Dish Pairings
When you serve the classic Alice Springs Chicken, the right side dishes make a big difference. You might want a complete chicken dinner or something like the Outback Steakhouse sides. There are many tasty options to pick from.
Mashed potatoes are a great choice with the Alice Springs Chicken. They’re creamy and buttery, matching the chicken and bacon’s savory taste. For a lighter option, try roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or a fresh salad.
For a hearty meal, pair the chicken with side dishes for chicken like garlic mashed potatoes. Baked or Parmesan roasted potatoes are also good choices. They fill you up and taste amazing.
Want something different? Try the chicken with a Mexican street corn salad or garlic fries. These sides add a fun twist to your meal, making it unforgettable.
Choosing the right side dishes for chicken is key. They should enhance the Alice Springs Chicken‘s rich flavors. With the perfect sides, you’ll have a complete chicken dinner everyone will love.
| Side Dish | Flavor Profile | Nutritional Value |
|---|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | Creamy, Buttery | Carbohydrates: 39g, Protein: 4g, Fat: 15g |
| Roasted Brussels Sprouts | Savory, Caramelized | Carbohydrates: 12g, Protein: 4g, Fat: 6g |
| Garlic Mashed Potatoes | Creamy, Garlicky | Carbohydrates: 43g, Protein: 5g, Fat: 16g |
| Mexican Street Corn Salad | Sweet, Spicy, Tangy | Carbohydrates: 20g, Protein: 4g, Fat: 12g |
Troubleshooting Common Cooking Issues
Making the perfect Alice Springs Chicken is a fun challenge. With a few simple tips, you can make it right every time. We’ll cover common cooking problems like temperature and texture.
Temperature Control
To avoid dry chicken, watch the internal temperature closely. Use a meat thermometer to check if it’s at 165°F. Also, pound the chicken breasts to make them even. This helps them cook evenly.
Texture Problems
Having trouble with the cheese not melting? Try covering the dish with foil while it bakes. This keeps the heat in and melts the cheese well. For crispy bacon, cook it separately before adding it to the chicken. If the marinade is too thick, add a bit of water or lemon juice to thin it out.
By monitoring the temperature and adjusting your methods, you’ll get better at making Alice Springs Chicken. Savor the delicious results of your efforts!
FAQ
What is Alice Springs Chicken?
Alice Springs Chicken is a signature dish from Outback Steakhouse, featuring grilled chicken topped with bacon, mushrooms, cheese, and honey mustard sauce.
Where does the name “Alice Springs Chicken” come from?
It’s named after Alice Springs in Australia’s Northern Territory. The dish is not from Australia but is loved at Outback Steakhouse.
What makes Alice Springs Chicken special?
Its honey mustard marinade makes it stand out. The mix of chicken, bacon, mushrooms, and cheese is irresistible.
What are the main ingredients in Alice Springs Chicken?
You need chicken breasts, Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, lemon juice, bacon, mushrooms, onion, butter, cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheese.
How do you make the honey mustard marinade?
Mix mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for flavor.
What tools and equipment are needed to make Alice Springs Chicken?
You’ll need a large skillet, bowls, cups, spoons, and a meat thermometer. Prepare ingredients like bacon and cheese ahead of time.
How do you properly cook the chicken and assemble the dish?
Marinate the chicken first. Cook the bacon, then sauté mushrooms and onions. Brown the chicken in butter, then bake with toppings until done.
What’s the best way to cook the bacon and mushroom toppings?
Cook bacon until crispy, then sauté mushrooms and onions in the grease. Adding spinach or asparagus can also enhance the dish.
Which cheese combination works best for Alice Springs Chicken?
Sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese are best. You can also try Colby Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for extra flavor.
What are some great side dish ideas to pair with Alice Springs Chicken?
Try mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a house salad. Garlic mashed potatoes or baked potatoes are also great. For a lighter option, roasted Brussels sprouts or a Mexican street corn salad work well.
How do you avoid common cooking issues with this recipe?
Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s temperature. Pound the breasts for even cooking. Cover with foil if cheese isn’t melting. Cook bacon separately for crispiness.